Peter Obi lawsuit against Deji Adeyanju seeks ₦1.5bn in damages over alleged false and defamatory social media posts

Peter Obi lawsuit has drawn national attention after the former Labour Party presidential candidate filed legal action against activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju for alleged defamation.

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The suit, lodged at the Anambra State High Court in Onitsha, accuses Adeyanju of publishing false and damaging statements about Obi on social media.

According to court filings, Obi described the activist’s posts as reckless, malicious, and deliberately injurious to his public image.

Through his legal team, the former Anambra governor is demanding a public apology from Adeyanju, alongside ₦1 billion in general damages and ₦500 million in exemplary damages, citing reputational harm.

Reacting to the lawsuit, Adeyanju confirmed its filing, saying he was “relieved” that Obi had followed through on his earlier threat to take legal action.

“Finally, Peter Obi has sued me. I’m actually happy and relieved that he didn’t back out after saying he would,” Adeyanju said in a message shared with Daily Post.

He added, “Interestingly, he filed the case in Anambra State, even though he’s mostly in Abuja where I live. But no problem, we move.”

The case has sparked mixed reactions online, with some supporters viewing the move as a bold step to protect one’s reputation in Nigeria’s increasingly toxic digital space, while others argue it raises questions about freedom of expression and political criticism.

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As of press time, Adeyanju has not disclosed whether he will countersue or seek an out-of-court settlement.